CSOs need better role definitions

Here’s a note from Alison Taylor about this Reuters article:

Great piece, terrible headline. What’s wrong with chief sustainability officers isn’t “burnout.” 🤔

It’s total lack of role definition…Which means getting dumped with regulatory oversight, a million ESG questionnaires, “stakeholder engagement” so no one else needs to bother, innovation, risk management, impact and running around after the CEO.

In other words, comprehensive organizational transformation, often with no budget, authority, or relevant expertise. If you don’t believe me, read this recent HBR piece on the “eight responsibilities of chief sustainability officers” and then reflect on what the task and remit of this team actually is… 🤔🤣